Two For The Road

The only recorded meeting between George Shearing and Carmen McRae took place in 1980 for Concord, and it's a shame there wasn't a follow-up date. Although the pianist's backing of singers on recordings is relatively infrequent, he always provides them with richly textured and inspired accompaniment. McRae is in great voice on this date, bringing out the best in songs with her emotional and dramatic interpretations. Most of the works on this CD are gems from the Great American Songbook, including a jaunty take of "Gentleman Friend", and the moving ballad "If I Should Lose You." This top notch duo date should be of great interest to fans of either Shearing or McRae.